Here are some tips on how to stay warm and cozy this winter.

01. Eat dumplings

Chinese legends

During the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220), the Chinese physician 张仲景 (zhāng zhòng jǐng) saved many people from a devastating typhoid epidemic. As the winter cold descended, he noticed that many suffered from a severe cold, and their ears were particularly vulnerable to frostbite.

He made a special dish from mutton, chili pepper, and herbs, known for their warming properties, which he wrapped in dough and formed into the shape of an ear. This is how dumplings were born!

吃饺子

chī jiǎo zi

to eat dumplings

Today, there is a saying, "Eat dumplings on the first day of winter, or your ears will get frostbite". Thanks to the old tradition, restaurants specializing in 饺子 (jiǎo zi) are bustling with customers eager for this comfort food.

02. Eat hotpot

Hotpot is great for staying warm in cold weather. When you dip ingredients such as meat, vegetables, and noodles into the hot broth, they quickly absorb the warmth, raising your internal body temperature.

吃火锅

chī huǒ guō

to eat hotpot

Sharing a hotpot meal with friends or family often involves gathering around a heated pot, which provides a cozy atmosphere.

03. Keep a hot water bottle handy

Hot water in China is about more than just hydration; it's a fundamental aspect of daily life. Many Chinese people prefer to consume warm or hot beverages throughout the day, rather than cold drinks.

喝热水

hē rè shuǐ

to drink hot water

In China, thermos flasks are a must, especially in cold weather, as they allow hot drinks like tea or soup to be kept on hand all day.

热水瓶

rè shuǐ píng

thermos flask; thermos bottle

04. Wear thermal clothing

Whether you're strolling through Shanghai’s bustling streets or exploring its scenic landscapes, staying warm by getting special thermal clothing. Here are some keywords for your online shopping search:

保暖内衣

bǎo nuǎn nèi yī

thermal underwear

保暖背心

bǎo nuǎn bèi xīn

thermal long-sleeve shirt

保暖裤

bǎo nuǎn kù

thermal pants

保暖丝袜

bǎo nuǎn sī wà

thermal stockings

If you want something extra warm, when shopping online, include the term "加绒加厚" (jiā róng jiā hòu) along with the words above. For example, 加绒加厚保暖裤 (jiā róng jiā hòu bǎo nuǎn kù), "fleece-lined-thickened-thermal-pants".

加绒加厚

jiā róng jiā hòu

fleece-lined and thickened

literally "add-velvet-add-thick"

05. Use accessories

These items are just what you need in China during winter. You can find them online or ask at a local store:

取暖器

qǔ nuǎn qì

room heater

电热毯

diàn rè tǎn

electric blanket

To use an electric blanket and heater safely, it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions and take necessary precautions.

保暖热贴

bǎo nuǎn rè tiē

thermal patch, thermal pad

These small, portable packs contain heating elements that, when activated, emit warmth for several hours. They can be placed in pockets, gloves, or even stuck to clothing to provide localized warmth.

06. Eat roasted vegetables

烤红薯

kǎo hóng shǔ

roasted sweet potato(es)

烤玉米

kǎo yù mǐ

roasted corn

Throughout winter, you will see these two popular street food items sold everywhere. Roasted sweet potatoes and corn are not only enjoyed for their delicious taste but also for the warmth they provide during the chilly days.

 

Source: That's Mandarin

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